How the popularity of non-traditional engagement rings affects gemstone sales
Many fiancées-to-be would prefer a gemstone than the more traditional diamond option as the centre of their engagement ring. This can be observed in the spike in gemstone sales as these trends grow. The increase of the demand is partly due to the fact that many gemstones are more affordable than pristinely cut diamonds, and have often been popularised by the rich and famous.
Here are some of the most popular gemstones often sold as centre pieces for engagement rings and some celebrities that popularised the trend:
Morganite
The biggest reason morganite is such a popular engagement ring choice today is because of its alluring pink glow. It’s unconventional, while still being pretty pink and adding loads of personality. Morganite gemstones also don’t scratch easily so they will last a lifetime, never losing their sparkle.
Amethyst
This seems to be a favourite among those looking for something unique that won’t break the bank. It has deep history rooted in the symbolic meaning in that the amethyst represents purity and spirituality. It is often used in the engagement rings for women born in February as this is their birth stone.
Emerald
The person who made the emerald famous as the star of an engagement ring was Jackie Kennedy. JFK proposed, to the then Jackie O’ in 1953, with a uniquely designed emerald and diamond combination ring which trend setter Jackie Kennedy quickly made popular with her status as one of the biggest trend setters of her time.
Emerald cut diamonds have also always been extremely popular and, when paired with the emerald, just make for better gemstone sales.
Sapphire
The most well-known sapphire ring is the one that was given to Lady Diana. It is now worn by Kate Middleton and considered the most famous heirloom-turned engagement ring in modern history. The royally staggering sapphire is made of an 18 carat stone and white gold. Impressive to say the least. This made the sapphire a very popular choice for engagement rings once Lady Diana wore it and again when Prince William used the heirloom to propose to Kate Middleton. The royals set the sapphire trend alive, especially in the UK.
Opals
Opals are the traditional 14th wedding anniversary gift and as that tradition has faded many millennials have taken to trading in the 14th wedding anniversary stone for their engagement rings. It has a unique nature and changes colours depending on the way it reflects light. It is also popular for women born in October as it is their birth stone.
Pearls
While pearls make a popular and undeniably stunning replacement for a diamond in an engagement ring, they do not last as long because they are much softer. However, with the right care and caution there is no reason you can’t wear this stylish ring every day and have some spare cash for the honeymoon.
For gemstone sales that won’t break the bank and fantastic custom engagement ring designers contact professional jewellers to get you exactly what you want.
